Justin Baker Charged With Vandalism While Working As Jackson Motel Guard

JPD PRESS RELEASE

About 8:20 a.m. Saturday morning, Officers were called to the Doubletree Motel at 1770 Hwy 45 Bypass about a vandalism that had occurred in one of the meeting rooms overnight. 

 Several books, musical instruments, electronics and a Torah scroll as well as several religious venerated items to be used in religious ceremonies belonging to the Margolin Hebrew Academy were marked on, torn or otherwise damaged and defiled.  Although the exact values of property are still being determined, the preliminary estimate put the value of the damaged property over $60,000.

A joint investigation was initiated involving the Jackson Police Department and local officials from the Federal Bureau of Investigation Jackson Resident Agency and Tennessee Department of Homeland Security. 

The overnight security guard was developed as the suspect.  The guard was an employee of Maxx Guard.  Maxx Guard officials responded to the scene and are working with the Investigators on this case.

Justin Shawn Baker, age 24 of Jackson, has been arrested and charged with vandalism between $60 and $250,000 which is a Class B felony. 

 The crime appears to be specifically directed at the objects representing the Jewish faith.  The crime was opportunistic in nature and limited to the involvement of Mr. Baker. 

The motive for the crime is still under investigation. 

The Jackson Police Department is working closely with the District Attorney’s Office and federal officials as the investigation continues.

Justin Shawn Baker appeared in Jackson City Court this morning for arraignment.  Judge Blake Anderson set his bond at $100,000.